Community Learning Center off to a great start

Our little school with a mighty vision, the Las Virgenes Community Learning Center, has many things in its favor, not the least of which is it's extraordinary and eclectic After School Enrichment Program. This inspired program is a paramount part of the overall mission for "the little school that could."

Opening its doors in a matter of months was a Herculean effort indeed. And offering enrichment right out of the gate was always part of the plan.

One of the creative and interesting programs the CLC offers its students and Home Schooling Program is engineering with Legos. There is also a most colorful, playful and inspired French class. Far from rote instruction, this class uses storytelling, crafts and puppets to introduce the kids to the beautiful French language.

There's the ever-popular Hip Hop Class that is taught by the dedicated Creation Station instructors. Another profoundly popular class is offered by gifted and charismatic instructor, Eric Welch, who came up with the Jedi Knight Training class, which incorporates many of the Jedi philosophies into team-building and game playing.

We are also so lucky to have the exceptional KITE theatre program offered by Topanga's finest Mark and Hara Lewis. To further add to the eclectic mix of unique classes is the Afro-Brazilian martial art of Capoeira Basoura. Developed as a form of self-defense by the slaves in Brazil during the 17th century, capoeira is an art that combines selfdefense, dance, and music.

For the second session of enrichment, the CLC looks forward to adding the innovative and intriguing Brain Education program to the line up. Brain Ed, designed for students to promote health, happiness, peace and higher achievement, is highly experiential involving, mental and physical exercises, visualization, imagination and relaxation techniques.

It is rare to find this diverse, eclectic and unique variety of enrichment classes anywhere else. These are truly inspired, gifted teachers who embrace our philosophy and are an important part of maintaining our vision and solidifying our foundation. Julie Thomason Director of After School Enrichment, LVCLC Topanga